Wearable electronic device for changing mode related to user input and operation method thereof

Abstract

A wearable electronic device configured to be wearable on the head according to an embodiment may comprise a camera, a communication circuit, and a processor. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to, while driving the wearable electronic device in a first mode of input, identify an external electronic device for controlling the input of the wearable electronic device. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to receive first information via the communication circuit on the basis of identifying the external electronic device, the first information being information about at least one sensor that has sensed a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device among a plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to, on the basis of the first information, change the input mode of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode corresponding to the at least one sensor among a plurality of modes using the external electronic device. Various other embodiments are possible.

Description

Wearable electronic device for changing modes related to user input and method of operating the same

[0001] Various embodiments related to the present disclosure relate to a wearable electronic device that changes a mode related to a user input and a method of operating the same.

[0002] With the advancement of digital technology, electronic devices are now available in various forms, such as smartphones, tablet personal computers (PCs), and personal digital assistants (PDAs). Electronic devices are also being developed into wearable devices to enhance portability and accessibility.

[0003] Electronic devices developed to be wearable by users are being developed in the form of wearable electronic devices such as augmented reality glasses (AR glasses), video see-through (VST) devices, and head-mounted displays (HMDs) to provide virtual spaces in virtual environments. The variety of services and additional functions offered by wearable electronic devices is steadily increasing. To enhance the utility of these electronic devices and satisfy the needs of diverse users, telecommunication service providers and electronic device manufacturers are competitively developing electronic devices that offer diverse functions and differentiate themselves from other companies. Accordingly, the various functions offered by wearable electronic devices are also becoming increasingly sophisticated.

[0004] AR glasses, VST devices, or HMD devices can provide users with a realistic experience by displaying virtual images while worn on the user's body. AR glasses, VST devices, or HMD devices can replace the usability of smartphones in various fields such as gaming entertainment, education, and social networking services (SNS). Through AR glasses, VST devices, or HMD devices, users can receive content similar to reality and, through interaction, feel as if they are immersed in a virtual world.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] According to an embodiment, a wearable electronic device configured to be worn on a head may include a camera, a communication circuit, at least one processor, and a memory storing instructions. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to identify an external electronic device for controlling an input of the wearable electronic device while the input method of the wearable electronic device is operated in a first mode. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to receive, through the communication circuit, first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device based on identifying the external electronic device. The instructions according to one embodiment, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the input method of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode corresponding to the at least one sensor among a plurality of modes using the external electronic device, based on the first information.

[0007] According to an embodiment, a method for operating a wearable electronic device configured to be worn on a head may include an operation of identifying an external electronic device for controlling an input of the wearable electronic device while an input method of the wearable electronic device is operated in a first mode. According to an embodiment, the method for operating the wearable electronic device may include an operation of receiving, based on the identification of the external electronic device, first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device. According to an embodiment, the method for operating the wearable electronic device may include an operation of changing, based on the first information, the input method of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode corresponding to the at least one sensor among a plurality of modes for using the external electronic device.

[0008] According to an embodiment, a wearable electronic device configured to be worn on a head may include a camera, a communication circuit, at least one processor, and a memory storing instructions. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to identify an external electronic device for controlling an input of the wearable electronic device while the input method of the wearable electronic device is operated in a first mode. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the input method of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode using the external electronic device based on identifying the external electronic device. In one embodiment, the instructions may be configured such that, when executed by the at least one processor, the wearable electronic device maintains the second mode if, through the communication circuit, the wearable electronic device receives first information about at least one sensor, among a plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device, that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device within a specified time period. In one embodiment, the instructions may be configured such that, when executed by the at least one processor, the wearable electronic device changes the second mode to the first mode if, through the communication circuit, the wearable electronic device fails to receive first information about at least one sensor, among a plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device, that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device within a specified time period.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are drawings showing the front and back of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating an electronic system including a wearable electronic device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5b is a block diagram illustrating an electronic system including a wearable electronic device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to change a mode related to a user input from a first mode to a second mode.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to change a mode related to a user input from a first mode to a second mode.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to change a mode related to a user input from a first mode to a second mode.

[0019] FIGS. 10A and 10B are drawings for explaining a mode of a wearable electronic device determined according to a user's grip posture with respect to an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components. In addition, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness. The term "user" used in the embodiments of the present disclosure may refer to a person using an electronic device or a device (e.g., an artificial intelligence electronic device) using an electronic device.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0022] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0023] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0024] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0025] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0026] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0027] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0028] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0029] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0030] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0031] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0032] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0033] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0034] The camera module (180) can capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0035] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0036] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0037] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0038] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing 1eMBB, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for realizing URLLC.

[0039] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0040] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0041] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0042] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0043] Hereinafter, before describing the configuration of an electronic device and the method of operating the electronic device with reference to the drawings, the term "virtual object" in the present disclosure can be explained as a general meaning of an object representing an execution screen of one or more applications displayed in a virtual reality space, an object included in the execution screen, an object related to a menu or function, an object for at least one input interface, or various other objects displayed in addition to the object. In addition, the virtual object described in the present disclosure means including at least one of an object representing an execution screen of one or more applications displayed in a virtual reality space, an object included in the execution screen, an object related to a menu or function, an object for at least one input interface, or various other objects displayed in addition to the object. Here, the object is described in singular for the convenience of explanation, but the singular form of the noun corresponding to the object may include one or more.

[0044] The term virtual reality space described in the present disclosure may mean a virtual space provided using various virtual reality technology methods (e.g., extended reality (XR: eXtended Reality), virtual reality (VR: virtual reality), or augmented reality (AR: augmented reality)) in a virtual environment.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2, a wearable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one of a light output module (211), a display member (201), and a camera module (250).

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the light output module (211) may include a light source capable of outputting an image, and a lens for guiding the image to the display member (201). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the light output module (211) may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a digital mirror device (DMD), a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS), a light emitting diode (LED) on silicon (LEDoS), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), or a micro light emitting diode (micro LED).

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the display member (201) may include an optical waveguide (e.g., a waveguide). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an output image of an optical output module (211) incident on one end of the optical waveguide may be propagated inside the optical waveguide and provided to a user. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the optical waveguide may include at least one diffractive element (e.g., a diffractive optical element (DOE), a holographic optical element (HOE)) or at least one reflective element (e.g., a reflective mirror). For example, the optical waveguide may guide an output image of the optical output module (211) to a user's eye by using at least one diffractive element or reflective element.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the camera module (250) can capture still images and / or moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module (250) is disposed within a lens frame and can be disposed around the display member (201).

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first camera module (251) can capture and / or recognize the trajectory of the user's eye (e.g., pupil, iris) or gaze. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first camera module (251) can periodically or aperiodically transmit information related to the trajectory of the user's eye or gaze (e.g., trajectory information) to a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1).

[0051] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second camera module (253) can capture an external image.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third camera module (255) can be used for hand detection and tracking, and user gesture (e.g., hand movement) recognition. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third camera module (255) can be used for 3 degrees of freedom (3DoF), 6DoF head tracking, position (space, environment) recognition, and / or movement recognition. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second camera module (253) can also be used for hand detection and tracking, and user gesture recognition. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the first camera module (251) to the third camera module (255) can be replaced with a sensor module (e.g., a LiDAR sensor). For example, the sensor module can include at least one of a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), an infrared sensor, and / or a photodiode.

[0053] FIGS. 3A to 3C are drawings showing the front and back of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, in one embodiment, camera modules (311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316) and / or depth sensors (317) for obtaining information related to the surrounding environment of the wearable electronic device (300) may be arranged on the first surface (310) of the housing.

[0055] In one embodiment, the camera modules (311, 312) can acquire images related to the environment surrounding the wearable electronic device.

[0056] In one embodiment, the camera modules (313, 314, 315, 316) can acquire images while the wearable electronic device is worn by a user. The camera modules (313, 314, 315, 316) can be used for hand detection and tracking, and user gesture (e.g., hand movement) recognition. The camera modules (313, 314, 315, 316) can be used for 3DoF, 6DoF head tracking, position (spatial, environmental) recognition, and / or movement recognition. In one embodiment, the camera modules (311, 312) can also be used for hand detection and tracking, and user gesture.

[0057] In one embodiment, a depth sensor (317) may be configured to transmit a signal and receive a signal reflected from a subject, and may be used for purposes such as time of flight (TOF) to determine the distance to an object. Instead of or in addition to the depth sensor (317), the camera modules (313, 314, 315, 316) may also determine the distance to an object (or subject).

[0058] According to one embodiment, camera modules (325, 326) for facial recognition and / or a display (321) (and / or a lens) may be arranged on the second side (320) of the housing.

[0059] In one embodiment, the face recognition camera modules (325, 326) adjacent to the display (321) may be used to recognize the user's face, or may recognize and / or track both eyes of the user.

[0060] In one embodiment, the display (321) (and / or lens) may be disposed on the second side (320) of the wearable electronic device (300). In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (300) may not include some of the camera modules (315, 316) among the plurality of camera modules (313, 314, 315, 316). Although not illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B , the wearable electronic device (300) may further include at least one of the configurations illustrated in FIG. 2 .

[0061] Referring to FIG. 3C, according to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (301) may include a form factor (e.g., a head mounted display: HMD) for being worn on a user's head. The wearable electronic device (301) may further include a strap for being fixed on a body part of the user, and / or a wearing member. The wearable electronic device (301) may include a volume button (331), a ventilation hole (333), a status indicator light (335), and a power button (e.g., including a fingerprint recognition sensor) (337), and such configurations may be equally included in the wearable electronic device (300) illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The wearable electronic device (301), when worn on a user's head, may provide a user experience (or content related to a user experience) based on augmented reality, virtual reality, and / or extended reality (or mixed reality). A wearable electronic device (301) configured in the form of an HMD may include components identical or similar to the components of FIGS. 3A and 3B described above (e.g., 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, and 317).

[0062] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0063] According to one embodiment, an electronic device capable of providing a virtual reality space and / or a virtual reality object (or content) (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, a wearable electronic device (200) of FIG. 2, and / or a wearable electronic device (300 or 301) of FIGS. 3A to 3C) may be connected to at least one external electronic device (e.g., a controller) (401 and / or 402) that transmits and receives control signals and information via a designated communication method (e.g., BLE communication).

[0064] Referring to FIG. 4, according to one embodiment, at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may include an input interface device including a pointing device, an input control device, and / or a haptic motor (e.g., a vibration motor). The at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may transmit information about a user interaction with respect to a virtual object displayed in a virtual reality space to the electronic device (101) (or the wearable electronic device (200, 300, or 301)). Without being limited thereto, the at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may also be implemented as at least one of a keyboard, a mouse, an electronic pen, a smart phone, or an artificial intelligence (AI) device.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the first external electronic device (401) illustrated in (a) of FIG. 4 may represent a controller used with one hand of a user. The second external electronic device (402) illustrated in (b) of FIG. 4 may represent a controller used with the other hand of the user. The first external electronic device (401) and the second external electronic device (402) may be implemented identically or similarly to each other, except that the structure of the housing is different to fit the corresponding hand.

[0066] According to one embodiment, at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may include a sensor module (411), an input module (413), a battery (not shown), and an indicator member (415) (e.g., a status indicator light and / or an infrared LED). The at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may further include other components necessary for operation. The at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may be configured by dividing the entire housing into a first housing area (410a) and a second housing area (410b). For example, the first housing area (410a) may include a sensor module (411), an input module (413), and a battery (not shown), and the second housing area (410b) may include a indicator member (415). However, this is just an example, and the components arranged in the first housing area (410a) and the second housing area (410b) may not be limited thereto. The sensor module (411) according to one embodiment may include at least one sensor (411) (e.g., a proximity sensor, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, and / or a gyro sensor) for detecting the movement of at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402). For example, the sensor module (411) may be arranged in the second housing area (410b). The input module (413) according to one embodiment may include at least one button for inputting a user interaction related to a function or object executed on a virtual reality space displayed on an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101, 200), or a wearable electronic device (200, 300, 301)) and driving of at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402).

[0067] According to one embodiment, at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may further include a tip (440). The at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may be capable of identifying an input (e.g., a handwriting input) based on pressure applied to the tip (440). For example, the tip (440) may be electrically connected to a sensor module (411), and the sensor module (411) may sense pressure applied to the tip (440). Depending on the implementation, the at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may further include a separate sensor hub connected to the tip (440).

[0068] According to one embodiment, at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may further include a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433). The plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) may be sensors for checking a grip posture of a user with respect to the at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402). For example, the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) may include a touch sensor and / or a capacitance change detection sensor. For example, the at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402) may use the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) to check whether the grip posture of the user is a first posture (e.g., a grip posture as in FIG. 10A) or a second posture (e.g., a grip posture as in FIG. 10B). For example, a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) may be arranged on the handle portion of at least one external electronic device (401 and / or 402). The plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) may be arranged at different locations. Meanwhile, the number and locations of the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) illustrated in FIG. 4 are merely exemplary, and the technical concept of the present disclosure may not be limited thereto. For example, the plurality of sensors may be arranged at appropriate locations in an appropriate number to identify the user's grip posture.

[0069] FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating an electronic system including a wearable electronic device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 5A, according to one embodiment, an electronic system (e.g., electronic system (500) of FIG. 5B) may include a wearable electronic device (501) (e.g., electronic device (101, 200), or wearable electronic device (200, 300, 301)) and a first external electronic device (e.g., controller) (401) (or a second external electronic device (402) of FIG. 4).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the first external electronic device (401) may include an electronic device (e.g., a controller) for controlling input of the wearable electronic device (501). For example, the first external electronic device (401) may include a pointing device or an input control device of the wearable electronic device (501). Meanwhile, the number and / or types of the first external electronic devices (401) are exemplary, and the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may include an electronic device that can be worn by a user. For example, the wearable electronic device (501) may be implemented as any one of augmented reality glasses (AR glasses), video see-through (VST) devices, or head mounted display (HMD) devices. According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may display virtual objects, virtual content, and / or virtual execution screens through a display (e.g., display 540 of FIG. 5) while being worn by a user. According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may display or control virtual objects (e.g., handwriting input), virtual content, and / or virtual execution screens (e.g., execution screens of applications) according to a user input by a first external electronic device (401).

[0073] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (501) can track a user's hand. Based on user input from the user's hand, a virtual object (e.g., handwriting input), virtual content, and / or virtual execution screen (e.g., an application execution screen) can be displayed or controlled.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may be operated in a hand tracking mode that tracks a user's hand. In the hand tracking mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may identify a user input based on a gesture made by the user's hand. When the wearable electronic device (501) is operated in the hand tracking mode, the external electronic device (401) may enter an inactive state. For example, when the wearable electronic device (501) is operated in the hand tracking mode, the external electronic device (401) may be operated in a sleep mode or a standby mode.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may be operated in a controller mode or a handwriting mode to confirm a user input by a first external electronic device (401). In the controller mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may confirm a user input based on a gesture by the first external electronic device (401). In the handwriting mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may confirm a handwriting input based on a handwriting input gesture by the first external electronic device (401). When the wearable electronic device (501) is operated in the controller mode or the handwriting mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may deactivate an operation of tracking a user's hand.

[0076] In a comparative example, when a wearable electronic device switches from hand tracking mode to controller mode (or handwriting mode), a separate input (e.g., a button input) was required to change the mode. Furthermore, the wearable electronic device could only change modes while the external electronic device was stationary (or in standby mode). Consequently, the wearable electronic device could not quickly change modes. Furthermore, the wearable electronic device consumed a significant amount of power in determining whether the external electronic device was stationary (or in standby mode) in order to change modes.

[0077] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (501) can quickly change modes. In addition, the wearable electronic device (501) can reduce power consumption for mode changes by simplifying preparatory operations for mode changes.

[0078] FIG. 5b is a block diagram illustrating an electronic system including a wearable electronic device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 5B, according to one embodiment, the electronic system (500) may include a wearable electronic device (501) and a first external electronic device (e.g., a controller) (401). However, the number and / or type of the first external electronic devices (401) are not limited thereto. For convenience of explanation, the electronic system (500) is described below as including one first external electronic device (401). For example, the wearable electronic device (501) may be implemented as any one of AR glasses (augmented reality glasses), VST (video see-through) devices, and HMD (head mounted display) devices. For example, the first external electronic device (401) may be a pointing device or an input control device of the wearable electronic device (501). The first external electronic device (401) may be collectively referred to as an input device of an augmented reality glass (AR glass), a video see through (VST) device, an extended reality (XR) device, or a head mounted display (HMD) device.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may include a camera (510), a processor (520), a memory (530), a display (540), and a communication circuit (550). According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may be implemented identically or similarly to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, the wearable electronic device (200) of FIG. 2, or the wearable electronic device (300 or 301) of FIGS. 3A to 3C. For example, the wearable electronic device (501) may be configured to be worn on a user's head.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) can control the overall operation of the wearable electronic device (501). For example, the processor (520) can be implemented identically or similarly to the processor (120) of FIG. 1.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may drive the wearable electronic device (401) in a first mode related to an input method of the wearable electronic device (501). For example, the processor (520) may drive the input method of the wearable electronic device (501) in the first mode. For example, the first mode may represent a mode for confirming or determining an input to the wearable electronic device (501) according to an input method that does not use a first external electronic device (e.g., a controller) (401). For example, the processor (520) may, in the first mode of the wearable electronic device (501), confirm a gesture input by the user's body, a gaze tracking input (e.g., a user's pupil position sensed using a gaze tracking camera), a touch input to the wearable electronic device (501), or a combination of the above inputs as an input to the wearable electronic device (501). For example, the first mode may include a hand tracking mode. In the first mode, the processor (520) can identify a user's hand movement or gesture through the camera (510) and identify a user input corresponding to the movement or gesture. For example, the processor (520) can identify a user input by comparing a movement or gesture identified through the camera (510) with a reference movement or gesture previously stored in the memory (530).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the processor (510) may identify a first external electronic device (e.g., a controller) (401) for controlling input of the wearable electronic device (501) through the camera (510) and / or the communication circuit (550) while driving the wearable electronic device (501) (or the input method of the wearable electronic device (501)) in the first mode. For example, when the first external electronic device (401) is located in the field of view (FOV) of the camera (510), the processor (510) may identify the first external electronic device (401) using the camera (510). For example, the camera (510) may include a depth sensor, a time-of-flight (ToF) sensor, and / or a depth vision camera. Alternatively, the processor (510) may identify a first external electronic device (401) around the wearable electronic device (501) based on a signal received from the communication circuit (550).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the processor (510) may receive, through the communication circuit (550), information about the user's grip posture identified by the grip sensor (430) included in the first external electronic device (401) (e.g., a plurality of sensors (e.g., a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) of FIG. 4) disposed on the handle portion of the first external electronic device (401) based on identifying the first external electronic device (401) using the camera (510). For example, the grip sensor (430) may detect the user's touch or capacitance change with respect to the handle portion of the first external electronic device (401). For example, the grip sensor (430) may include a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) disposed at different locations. For example, the processor (510) may detect a first external electronic device among the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433). First information about at least one sensor that senses the user's grip on the device (401) may be received. For example, the first information may include information about at least one sensor that detects a capacitance change among the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433). For example, the first information may include information indicating which sensor among the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) detects a capacitance change (e.g., a touch by the user's grip). At this time, the processor (520) may determine or confirm the user's grip posture (e.g., a first posture or a second posture) for the first external electronic device (401) by checking which sensor among the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) detected the capacitance change. Alternatively, the first information may include information indicating the user's grip posture (e.g., the first posture or the second posture). At this time, the processor (520) may determine or confirm the user's grip posture indicated by the first information. You can check the posture (e.g. first posture or second posture).For example, the first posture may represent a posture in which the user holds the first external electronic device (401) with the palm and fingers, as shown in FIG. 10a. For example, the second posture may represent a posture in which the user holds the handle of the first external electronic device (401) with the fingers as if holding a pencil, as shown in FIG. 10b.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may change the first mode to a mode (or a second mode) corresponding to at least one sensor among a plurality of modes for controlling input of the wearable electronic device (401) using the first external electronic device (401) based on the first information received from the first external electronic device (401). For example, the plurality of modes may include a controller mode and a handwriting mode. The processor (520) may change the first mode to a mode specified for at least one sensor (e.g., a controller mode or a handwriting mode). Alternatively, the processor (520) may maintain the first mode.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may change the first mode to the controller mode when it is determined that among the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433 of FIG. 4), the first sensor (431) corresponding to the first position and the second sensor (432) corresponding to the second position have sensed the user's grip.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may, while operating in the controller mode, disable elements (e.g., specific buttons, pressure sensors (or pressure sensors), and IR LEDs) included in the first external electronic device (401) that are not related to the controller mode.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may change the first mode to a handwriting mode when it is determined that among the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433 of FIG. 4), the first sensor (431) corresponding to the first position and the third sensor (433) corresponding to the third position have sensed the user's grip.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may receive information about pressure (e.g., information about writing pressure) on the tip (440) included in the first external electronic device (401) through the communication circuit (550) after the first external electronic device (401) changes to a writing mode. Based on the information about pressure, the processor (520) may determine an execution command for a writing input or a function related to writing input.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may, while operating in the writing mode, disable elements (e.g., specific buttons and IR LEDs) included in the first external electronic device (401) that are not related to the writing mode.

[0091] According to one embodiment, when the processor (520) receives information about a grip posture sensed by the grip sensor (430) from the first external electronic device (401) even when the first external electronic device (401) is not identified through the camera (510), the processor (520) may change the first mode to a mode (e.g., controller mode or handwriting mode) specified for the corresponding grip posture. For example, when the processor (520) receives information indicating that a first sensor (431) corresponding to a first position and a second sensor (432) corresponding to a second position among a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433 of FIG. 4) have sensed the user's grip, the processor (520) may change the first mode to a controller mode. Alternatively, when the processor (520) receives information indicating that the first sensor (431) corresponding to the first position and the third sensor (433) corresponding to the third position among the plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433 in FIG. 4) have sensed the user's grip, the processor (520) may change the first mode to the handwriting mode.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) may, after changing the first mode to the controller mode or the handwriting mode, determine through the first external electronic device (401) whether at least one sensor designated for the corresponding mode senses the user's grip. If the processor (520) determines that the at least one sensor continues to sense the user's grip, the processor (520) may maintain the controller mode or the handwriting mode. Alternatively, if the processor (520) determines that the at least one sensor does not sense the user's grip, the processor (520) may change the controller mode or the handwriting mode back to the first mode. Depending on the implementation, the processor (520) may also change the controller mode to the handwriting mode or the handwriting mode to the controller mode based on information about the grip sensor (430) received through the first external electronic device (401).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) can display virtual content or objects through the display (540). For example, when the wearable electronic device (501) is implemented as AR glasses, the display (540) can be implemented as an optical output device (e.g., display member (201) of FIG. 2) for displaying content or objects through the glasses. Alternatively, when the wearable electronic device (501) is implemented as a VST device or an HMD device, the display (540) can be implemented as a device (e.g., display (321) of FIGS. 3A and 3B) for displaying a screen on the display. In this case, the wearable electronic device (501) can display a virtual object on a screen captured by the camera (510).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the processor (520) can wirelessly transmit and receive information (or data) to and from the first external electronic device (401) via the communication circuit (550). The processor (520) can form a communication connection with the first external electronic device (401) using a short-range communication technology (e.g., BLE (Bluetooth low energy) or WiFi) via the communication circuit (550).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the first external electronic device (401) may include a sensor module (411), a processor (420), a grip sensor (430), and a communication circuit (450).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may control the overall operation of the first external electronic device (401). For example, the processor (420) may be implemented in a manner identical to or similar to the processor (120) of FIG. 1.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may check information about a movement or gesture of the first external electronic device (401) sensed through a sensor module (411) (e.g., a motion sensor, an acceleration sensor, and / or a gyro sensor).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may identify information about the user's grip posture (or gripped position) with respect to the first external electronic device (401) sensed through a grip sensor (430) (e.g., a touch sensor and / or a capacitance change detection sensor). Alternatively, the processor (420) may identify at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433 of FIG. 4) that detected the user's grip.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the first external electronic device (401) may further include a pressure sensor (or pressure sensor) (not shown). For example, the processor (420) may check information about the pressure on a tip (e.g., tip (440) of FIG. 4) included in the first external electronic device (401) sensed through the pressure sensor.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may transmit, via the communication circuit (450), information about a movement or gesture, information about a grip posture (or a gripped position), information about at least one sensor that detects the user's grip, and / or information about pressure to the wearable electronic device (501). For example, the communication circuit (450) may establish a communication connection with the wearable electronic device (401) using a short-range communication technology.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may be driven in a sleep mode or a standby mode when there is no movement. When driven in the sleep mode or the standby mode, the processor (420) may deactivate some elements (e.g., an IR LED, a pressure sensor, and / or a specific button) of the first external electronic device (401). Alternatively, when the wearable electronic device (501) is driven in a controller mode or a handwriting mode, the processor (420) may deactivate some elements (e.g., an IR LED, a pressure sensor, and / or a specific button) of the first external electronic device (401) that are not related to the corresponding mode.

[0102] At least some of the operations of the wearable electronic device (501) described below may be performed by the processor (520). However, for convenience of explanation, the operations will be described as being performed by the wearable electronic device (501).

[0103] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 6, according to one embodiment, in operation 601, the wearable electronic device (501) may drive an input method of the wearable electronic device (501) in a first mode that does not use a first external electronic device (e.g., a controller) (401). For example, the wearable electronic device (501) may be driven in a first mode (e.g., a user's gesture input mode or a hand tracking mode that tracks a user's hand) related to an input method of the wearable electronic device (501) that does not use the first external electronic device (401).

[0105] According to one embodiment, in operation 603, the wearable electronic device (501) may identify an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device (401) of FIG. 5) for controlling input of the wearable electronic device (501) via at least one of a camera (e.g., the camera (510) of FIG. 5) and / or a communication circuit (e.g., the communication circuit (550) of FIG. 5). Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (501) may identify the first external electronic device (401) via a sensor included in the wearable electronic device (501) while operating in the first mode.

[0106] According to one embodiment, in operation 605, the wearable electronic device (501) may receive first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors (e.g., 431, 432, and 433 of FIG. 4) included in the external electronic device (401) that senses the user's grip on the external electronic device (401) based on identifying the external electronic device (401) (e.g., identifying the external electronic device (401) via the camera (510) and / or the communication circuit (550). Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (501) may also receive information related to the user's grip posture from the external electronic device (401) when the external electronic device (401) is identified via the camera (510).

[0107] According to one embodiment, in operation 607, the wearable electronic device (501) may change a first mode (e.g., a user gesture input mode or a hand tracking mode) based on the first information to a second mode (e.g., a controller mode or a handwriting mode) that controls input of the wearable electronic device (501) using the external electronic device (401). For example, the wearable electronic device (501) may change a plurality of modes (e.g., a controller mode and a handwriting mode) using the external electronic device (401) to a second mode designated (or corresponding) to the user's grip or the at least one sensor, based on at least one sensor identified based on the first information or the user's grip posture (e.g., a grip posture corresponding to the at least one sensor).

[0108] According to the above-described method, the wearable electronic device (501) can quickly change modes. In addition, the wearable electronic device (501) can reduce power consumption due to mode changes.

[0109] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to change a mode related to a user input from a first mode to a second mode.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 7, according to one embodiment, in operation 701, the wearable electronic device (501) may operate in a first mode (e.g., gesture input mode or hand tracking mode) that does not use a first external electronic device (e.g., controller) (401) as an input method of the wearable electronic device (501). For example, in the first mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may track a user's hand using a camera (e.g., camera (510) of FIG. 5). In addition, in the first mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may identify a movement or gesture of the user's hand and identify a user input corresponding to the identified movement or gesture.

[0111] According to one embodiment, in operation 703, the wearable electronic device (501) may determine whether an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device (401) of FIG. 5, a controller) is identified (or confirmed) through at least one of the camera (501) or the communication circuit (e.g., the communication circuit (550) of FIG. 5) while operating in the first mode. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (501) may identify the first external electronic device (401) through a sensor included in the wearable electronic device (501) while operating in the first mode.

[0112] In one embodiment, if the external electronic device (401) is not identified (NO of operation 703), the wearable electronic device (501) may be driven in the first mode.

[0113] According to one embodiment, if the external electronic device (401) is not identified (example of operation 703), in operation 705, the wearable electronic device (501) may determine whether two designated sensors among a plurality of sensors (e.g., 431, 432, and 433 of FIG. 4) included in the external electronic device (401) sense the user's grip. For example, the wearable electronic device (501) may receive relevant information from the external electronic device (401) to determine whether the two designated sensors sense the user's grip. For example, the two designated sensors may represent sensors pre-designated in the external electronic device (401) for the wearable electronic device (501) to switch to a controller mode or a handwriting mode.

[0114] According to one embodiment, if it is determined that two designated sensors included in the external electronic device (401) do not sense the user's grip (NO of operation 705), the wearable electronic device (501) may be driven in the first mode.

[0115] According to one embodiment, if it is determined that two designated sensors included in the external electronic device (401) have sensed the user's grip (as in the example of operation 705), in operation 707, the wearable electronic device (501) can determine whether the sensed sensors correspond to a handwriting mode.

[0116] According to one embodiment, if it is determined that the sensed sensors correspond to the handwriting mode (example of operation 707), in operation 709, the wearable electronic device (501) may change the first mode to the handwriting mode.

[0117] According to one embodiment, if it is determined that the sensed sensors do not correspond to the handwriting mode (NO in operation 707), in operation 711, the wearable electronic device (501) may change the first mode to the controller mode.

[0118] According to the above-described method, the wearable electronic device (501) can quickly change modes. In addition, the wearable electronic device (501) can reduce power consumption due to mode changes.

[0119] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to change a mode related to a user input from a first mode to a second mode.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 8, according to one embodiment, in operation 801, the wearable electronic device (501) may operate in a first mode (e.g., gesture input mode or hand tracking mode) that does not use a first external electronic device (e.g., controller) (401) as an input method of the wearable electronic device (501). For example, in the first mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may track a user's hand using a camera (e.g., camera (510) of FIG. 5). In addition, in the first mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may identify a movement or gesture of the user's hand and identify a user input corresponding to the identified movement or gesture.

[0121] According to one embodiment, in operation 803, the wearable electronic device (501) may determine whether an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device (401) of FIG. 5, a controller)) is confirmed (or identified) through at least one of a camera (510) or a communication circuit (e.g., the communication circuit (550) of FIG. 5) while operating in the first mode. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (501) may also confirm the first external electronic device (401) through a sensor included in the wearable electronic device (501) while operating in the first mode.

[0122] According to one embodiment, when an external electronic device (401) is identified (e.g., operation 803), in operation 805, the wearable electronic device (501) may determine whether at least one sensor senses the user's grip. In this case, the at least one sensor may include a sensor (or a combination of sensors) that is not designated for a specific mode. In other words, determining whether at least one sensor senses the user's grip may be for the purpose of determining whether a grip exists.

[0123] In one embodiment, if at least one sensor is determined not to be sensing the user's grip (NO of operation 805), the wearable electronic device (501) may remain in the first mode.

[0124] According to one embodiment, if at least one sensor is determined to sense the user's grip (as in the example of operation 805), the wearable electronic device (501) may change the first mode to a controller mode. Depending on the implementation, the wearable electronic device (501) may change the first mode to a handwriting mode. For example, changing the first mode to a controller mode or a handwriting mode may be specified by the user or automatically specified by the processor (520).

[0125] In one embodiment, if the external electronic device (401) is not identified (NO of operation 803), then in operation 807, the wearable electronic device (501) may determine whether two sensors designated for a specific mode sense the user's grip.

[0126] In one embodiment, if it is determined that the two specified sensors are not sensing the user's grip (NO of operation 807), the wearable electronic device (501) may remain in the first mode.

[0127] In one embodiment, if it is determined that two designated sensors are sensing the user's grip (e.g., operation 807), the wearable electronic device (501) may change the first mode to a mode corresponding to the two designated sensors (e.g., controller mode). Depending on the implementation, the wearable electronic device (501) may change the first mode to a handwriting mode.

[0128] According to the method described above, the wearable electronic device (501) can set different mode change conditions depending on whether the external electronic device (401) is identified through the camera (510) or not. This allows the wearable electronic device (501) to quickly change modes. In addition, the wearable electronic device (501) can simplify operations for mode changes, thereby reducing power consumption due to mode changes.

[0129] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to change a mode related to a user input from a first mode to a second mode.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 9, according to an embodiment, in operation 901, the wearable electronic device (501) may operate in a first mode (e.g., gesture input mode or hand tracking mode) that does not use a first external electronic device (e.g., controller) (401) as an input method of the wearable electronic device (501). For example, in the first mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may track a user's hand using a camera (e.g., camera (510) of FIG. 5). In the first mode, the wearable electronic device (501) may identify a movement or gesture of the user's hand and identify a user input corresponding to the identified movement or gesture.

[0131] According to one embodiment, in operation 903, the wearable electronic device (501) may determine whether an external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device (401) of FIG. 5, a controller)) is confirmed (or identified) through at least one of a camera (510) or a communication circuit (e.g., the communication circuit (550) of FIG. 5) while operating in the first mode. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (501) may also confirm the first external electronic device (401) through a sensor included in the wearable electronic device (501) while operating in the first mode.

[0132] In one embodiment, if the external electronic device (401) is not identified (NO of operation 903), the wearable electronic device (501) may maintain the first mode.

[0133] According to one embodiment, when an external electronic device (401) is identified (e.g., operation 903), in operation 905, the wearable electronic device (501) may determine whether a distance between the user's hand and the external electronic device (401) is shorter than a specified distance. For example, the specified distance for changing the mode of the wearable electronic device (401) may be determined as a distance (e.g., 10 cm) that may indicate that the user's hand is close to the external electronic device (401). The specified distance may be determined by the user or automatically determined by the processor (520).

[0134] According to one embodiment, if it is determined that the distance between the user's hand and the external electronic device (401) is not shorter than the specified distance (NO of operation 905), the wearable electronic device (501) may maintain the first mode.

[0135] According to one embodiment, if the distance between the user's hand and the external electronic device (401) is determined to be shorter than a specified distance (e.g., in operation 905), in operation 907, the wearable electronic device (501) may change the first mode to a controller mode. Depending on the implementation, the wearable electronic device (501) may change the first mode to a handwriting mode. For example, changing the first mode to a controller mode or a handwriting mode may be specified by the user or may be automatically specified by the processor (520).

[0136] Depending on the implementation, the wearable electronic device (501) may skip operation 905 and perform operation 907 if the condition of operation 903 is satisfied.

[0137] In one embodiment, at operation 909, the wearable electronic device (501) may activate a timer (or timer setting) after changing the first mode to a controller mode (or handwriting mode).

[0138] In one embodiment, in operation 911, the wearable electronic device (501) can determine, through the external electronic device (401), whether two designated sensors included in the external electronic device (401) sense the user's grip within a designated time period.

[0139] In one embodiment, if it is determined that two designated sensors included in the external electronic device (401) sense the user's grip within a designated time period (as in the example of operation 911), then in operation 913, the wearable electronic device (501) may maintain the controller mode (or handwriting mode).

[0140] According to one embodiment, if it is not confirmed that two designated sensors included in the external electronic device (401) are sensing the user's grip within a designated time period (NO in operation 911), the wearable electronic device (501) may change the controller mode (or handwriting mode) to the first mode. That is, if it is not confirmed that two designated sensors included in the external electronic device (401) are sensing the user's grip within a designated time period, the wearable electronic device (501) may cancel the mode change.

[0141] According to the above-described method, the wearable electronic device (501) can proactively change modes when a specified condition among the conditions for mode change is satisfied. This allows the wearable electronic device (501) to quickly change modes. In addition, the wearable electronic device (501) can simplify operations for mode change, thereby reducing power consumption due to mode change.

[0142] FIGS. 10A and 10B are drawings for explaining a mode of a wearable electronic device determined according to a user's grip posture with respect to an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 10A, according to one embodiment, a user may grip an external electronic device (401) in a first posture. As the user grips the external electronic device (401) in the first posture, among a plurality of sensors (e.g., 431, 432, and 433 of FIG. 4) included in the external electronic device (401), a first sensor (431) and a second sensor (432) may detect a touch (or a capacitance change). The external electronic device (401) may transmit information about the first posture or information indicating that the first sensor (431) and the second sensor (432) detect a touch (or a capacitance change) to the wearable electronic device (501).

[0144] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may change or switch the first mode to the controller mode in response to information about the first posture or information indicating that the first sensor (431) and the second sensor (432) detect a touch (or capacitance change).

[0145] Referring to FIG. 10B, according to one embodiment, a user may grip an external electronic device (401) in a second posture. As the user grips the external electronic device (401) in the second posture, among a plurality of sensors (e.g., 431, 432, and 433 of FIG. 4) included in the external electronic device (401), a first sensor (431) and a third sensor (433) may detect a touch (or a capacitance change). The external electronic device (401) may transmit information about the second posture or information indicating that the first sensor (431) and the third sensor (433) detect a touch (or a capacitance change) to the wearable electronic device (501).

[0146] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (501) may change or switch the first mode to a handwriting mode in response to information about the second posture or information indicating that the first sensor (431) and the third sensor (432) detect a touch (or capacitance change).

[0147] According to the above-described method, the wearable electronic device (501) can quickly change modes. In addition, the wearable electronic device (501) can reduce power consumption due to mode changes by simplifying operations for mode changes.

[0148] A wearable electronic device (501) configured to be worn on a head according to an embodiment may include a camera (510), a communication circuit (550), at least one processor (520), and a memory (530) storing instructions. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured such that, when executed by the at least one processor, the wearable electronic device identifies an external electronic device (401 and / or 402) for controlling an input of the wearable electronic device while the input method of the wearable electronic device is driven in a first mode. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured such that, when executed by the at least one processor, the wearable electronic device receives, through the communication circuit, first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) included in the external electronic device, which senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device, based on identifying the external electronic device. The instructions according to one embodiment, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the input method of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode corresponding to the at least one sensor among a plurality of modes using the external electronic device, based on the first information.

[0149] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the first mode to a controller mode that confirms a user input to the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device when it is determined that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a second sensor corresponding to a second position among the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device have sensed the touch by the grip.

[0150] The instructions according to one embodiment may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to deactivate elements included in the external electronic device that are not related to the controller mode while the wearable electronic device operates the input method of the wearable electronic device in the controller mode.

[0151] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the first mode to a controller mode for confirming a user input to the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device when the wearable electronic device receives the first information indicating that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a second sensor corresponding to a second position among the plurality of sensors sense the touch by the grip from the external electronic device even if the external electronic device is not confirmed.

[0152] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the first mode to a handwriting mode for inputting handwriting using the external electronic device when it is determined that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a third sensor corresponding to a third position among the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device have sensed the touch by the grip.

[0153] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the input method of the wearable electronic device to the handwriting mode and then receive information about pressure on a tip included in the external electronic device through the communication circuit. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to confirm handwriting input based on the information about the pressure.

[0154] The instructions according to one embodiment may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to deactivate elements included in the external electronic device that are not related to the handwriting mode while the wearable electronic device operates the input method in the handwriting mode.

[0155] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the first mode to a handwriting mode for inputting handwriting using the external electronic device when the wearable electronic device receives the first information indicating that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a third sensor corresponding to a third position among the plurality of sensors sense the touch by the grip from the external electronic device even if the external electronic device is not identified.

[0156] The plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device according to one embodiment are arranged in a handle portion of the external electronic device, and the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device may be arranged in different positions.

[0157] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to determine, through the external electronic device, whether the at least one sensor senses the touch by the grip after the input method of the wearable electronic device has been changed to the second mode. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to maintain the second mode if it is determined that the at least one sensor senses the touch by the grip. In one embodiment, the processor may be configured to change the second mode to the first mode if it is determined that the at least one sensor does not sense the touch by the grip.

[0158] According to an embodiment, a method for operating a wearable electronic device (501) configured to be worn on a head may include an operation of checking an external electronic device (401 and / or 402) for controlling an input of the wearable electronic device while the input method of the wearable electronic device is operated in a first mode. According to an embodiment, the method for operating the wearable electronic device may include an operation of receiving, based on the checking of the external electronic device, first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) included in the external electronic device that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device. According to an embodiment, the method for operating the wearable electronic device may include an operation of changing, based on the first information, the input method of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode corresponding to the at least one sensor among a plurality of modes for using the external electronic device.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the operation of changing the first mode to the second mode may include an operation of changing the first mode to a controller mode that confirms a user input to the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device when it is confirmed that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a second sensor corresponding to a second position among the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device have sensed the touch by the grip.

[0160] The operating method of the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of deactivating elements not related to the controller mode included in the external electronic device while operating the input method of the wearable electronic device in the controller mode.

[0161] The method for operating the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of changing the first mode to a controller mode for confirming a user input to the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device when the first information indicating that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a second sensor corresponding to a second position among the plurality of sensors sense the touch by the grip is received from the external electronic device even when the external electronic device is not confirmed.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the operation of changing the first mode to the second mode may include an operation of changing the first mode to a handwriting mode for inputting handwriting using the external electronic device when it is confirmed that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a third sensor corresponding to a third position among the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device have sensed the touch by the grip.

[0163] The operating method of the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of receiving information about pressure on a tip included in the external electronic device through a communication circuit (550) included in the wearable electronic device after changing the input method of the wearable electronic device to the handwriting mode. The operating method of the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of confirming handwriting input based on the information about the pressure.

[0164] The method of operating the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of deactivating elements not related to the handwriting mode included in the external electronic device while operating the input method of the wearable electronic device in the handwriting mode.

[0165] The method of operating the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of changing the first mode to a handwriting mode for inputting handwriting using the external electronic device when the first information indicating that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a third sensor corresponding to a third position among the plurality of sensors have sensed the touch by the grip is received from the external electronic device even if the external electronic device is not identified.

[0166] According to an embodiment, a wearable electronic device (501) configured to be worn on a head may include a camera (510), a communication circuit (550), at least one processor (520), and a memory (530) storing instructions. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured such that, when executed by the at least one processor, the wearable electronic device identifies an external electronic device for controlling an input of the wearable electronic device while the input method of the wearable electronic device is operated in a first mode. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured such that, when executed by the at least one processor, the wearable electronic device changes the input method of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode using the external electronic device based on identifying the external electronic device. In one embodiment, the instructions may be configured such that, when executed by the at least one processor, the wearable electronic device maintains the second mode if, through the communication circuit, the wearable electronic device receives first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) included in the external electronic device that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device within a specified time period. In one embodiment, the instructions may be configured such that, when executed by the at least one processor, the wearable electronic device changes the second mode to the first mode if, through the communication circuit, the wearable electronic device fails to receive first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device within a specified time period.

[0167] The instructions according to one embodiment may be configured to cause the wearable electronic device to change the first mode to the second mode when the wearable electronic device determines that the external electronic device is located within a specified distance from the wearable electronic device, when the instructions are executed by the at least one processor.

[0168] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this document pertains.

[0169] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0170] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0171] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0172] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0173] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (1440)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (1436) or an external memory (1438)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (1401)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (1420)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (1401)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0175] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In a wearable electronic device (501) configured to be worn on the head, Camera (510); Communication circuit (550); at least one processor (520); and A wearable electronic device comprises a memory (530) storing instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, While driving the input method of the above wearable electronic device (501) in the first mode, an external electronic device (401) for controlling the input of the wearable electronic device is checked, Based on verifying the external electronic device, first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) included in the external electronic device that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device is received through the communication circuit, A wearable electronic device, based on the first information, configured to change the input method of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode corresponding to at least one sensor among a plurality of modes using the external electronic device.

2. In the first paragraph, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the wearable electronic device to: A wearable electronic device configured to change the first mode to a controller mode that confirms user input to the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device when it is determined that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a second sensor corresponding to a second position among the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device have sensed the touch by the grip.

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 2, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the wearable electronic device to: A wearable electronic device configured to deactivate elements not related to the controller mode included in the external electronic device while the input method of the wearable electronic device is driven in the controller mode.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the wearable electronic device to: A wearable electronic device configured to change the first mode to a controller mode for confirming user input to the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device when the first information indicating that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a second sensor corresponding to a second position among the plurality of sensors sense the touch by the grip is received from the external electronic device even if the external electronic device is not confirmed.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the wearable electronic device to: A wearable electronic device configured to change the first mode to a handwriting mode for inputting handwriting using the external electronic device when it is determined that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a third sensor corresponding to a third position among the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device have sensed the touch by the grip.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the wearable electronic device to: After changing the input method of the wearable electronic device to the handwriting mode, information about the pressure on the tip included in the external electronic device is received through the communication circuit, A wearable electronic device configured to verify handwriting input based on information about the above pressure.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the wearable electronic device to: A wearable electronic device configured to deactivate elements not related to the handwriting mode included in the external electronic device while the input method of the wearable electronic device is operated in the handwriting mode.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the wearable electronic device to: A wearable electronic device set to change the first mode to a handwriting mode for inputting handwriting using the external electronic device when the first information indicating that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a third sensor corresponding to a third position among the plurality of sensors sense the touch by the grip is received from the external electronic device even if the external electronic device is not identified.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device are arranged in the handle portion of the external electronic device, A wearable electronic device wherein the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device are placed at different locations.

10. In any one of claims 1 to 9, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the wearable electronic device to: After the input method of the wearable electronic device is changed to the second mode, it is checked through the external electronic device whether the at least one sensor senses the touch by the grip, If it is confirmed that at least one of the above sensors senses the touch by the grip, the second mode is maintained, A wearable electronic device configured to change the second mode to the first mode when it is determined that the at least one sensor does not sense the touch by the grip.

11. In a method of operating a wearable electronic device (501) configured to be worn on the head, An operation of checking an external electronic device (401) for controlling input of the wearable electronic device while driving the input method of the wearable electronic device (501) in the first mode; An operation of receiving first information about at least one sensor among a plurality of sensors (431, 432, and 433) included in the external electronic device that senses a touch by a user's grip on the external electronic device based on verifying the external electronic device; and A method of operating a wearable electronic device, comprising: based on the first information, changing the input method of the wearable electronic device from the first mode to a second mode corresponding to at least one sensor among a plurality of modes for controlling input of the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device.

12. In the 11th paragraph, the operation of changing the first mode to the second mode is as follows: A method for operating a wearable electronic device, comprising: when it is determined that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a second sensor corresponding to a second position among the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device have sensed the touch by the grip, an operation of changing the first mode to a controller mode for confirming a user input to the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device.

13. In any one of paragraphs 11 to 12, A method of operating a wearable electronic device, further comprising an action of deactivating elements not related to the controller mode included in the external electronic device while operating the input method of the wearable electronic device in the controller mode.

14. In any one of paragraphs 11 to 13, A method for operating a wearable electronic device, further comprising: when receiving the first information indicating that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a second sensor corresponding to a second position among the plurality of sensors have sensed the touch by the grip from the external electronic device even if the external electronic device is not identified, changing the first mode to a controller mode for identifying a user input to the wearable electronic device using the external electronic device.

15. In any one of clauses 11 to 14, the operation of changing the first mode to the second mode is as follows: A method of operating a wearable electronic device, comprising: when it is determined that a first sensor corresponding to a first position and a third sensor corresponding to a third position among the plurality of sensors included in the external electronic device have sensed the touch by the grip, an operation of changing the first mode to a handwriting mode for inputting handwriting using the external electronic device.

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